CHAPTER 66: AN OPEN AND GALLANT HEART

He turned at the sound of her voice, seeing her in the doorway. His physical reaction forced him to acknowledge he was lacking in self control as he had been the night he had awakened to find her in his room. 

It was obvious from her eyes that she had not slept. Their swollen lids gave evidence of tears as well, although her features appeared to be perfectly composed.

She said nothing else for a moment, her gaze examining his face as intently as he was assessing hers. 

"It was not a social call, I assume," she said finally. "I am not sorry to have missed him, then. Especially since I have already received a visit from your godmother this morning. As I understand you did. You have entertained quite a parade of visitors. All my fault, I'm afraid. And you have my apologies. I have apologized to Lady Laud as well. I'm afraid I did not think about the implications of leaving the ball with Mr Travener."